Astronomers have discovered a 'dust trap' around a young star that is likely a comet factory, allowing particles to grow from millimetre size to comets. The observations, made using ALMA, reveal a ring of gas with a central hole created by an unseen planet or companion star.
Researchers at Duke University Hospital successfully implanted a bioengineered blood vessel into a kidney dialysis patient, marking the first US clinical trial of this technology. The new vein is an off-the-shelf product engineered using human cells and no biological properties that trigger organ rejection.
A recent study by researchers at the University of Michigan found that parents with heavy TV viewing are more likely to feed their children junk food. Food-secure families' preschoolers have a distorted view of healthy food, and this link is very strong among these households.
Researchers at Mount Sinai have discovered a novel liver progenitor cell that can be differentiated from human embryonic stem cells and produce mature liver cells. This breakthrough discovery has the potential to revolutionize the treatment of liver disease, potentially overcoming the organ shortage issue.
A new MRI study by Brown University researchers reveals that exclusive breastfeeding for at least three months enhances brain development in infants, particularly in areas related to language and emotional function. The study found a 20-30% increase in white matter growth in breastfed babies compared to formula-fed babies.
A Stanford University study reveals that sound waves from earthquakes can reach land tens of minutes before a massive tsunami, potentially providing an early warning. The research identifies a specific acoustic signature that could indicate the presence of a tsunami-generating earthquake, allowing for faster-acting warning systems.
Researchers identified the 'Caldas tear,' a break in a slab separating two subducting plates, which accounts for seismic activity patterns and high-grade mineral deposits. The tear is thought to be caused by the Panama plate's collision with Colombia, resulting in an accumulation of stresses that could trigger strong motion events.
Researchers from CNIO describe how a genetic duplication 500 million years ago led to the evolution of the ASF1b gene, essential for proper cell division and related to breast cancer. The study's findings highlight the importance of studying molecular history to understand gene adaptation in cancer.
A new brain imaging study shows that differences in the visual system do not cause dyslexia, but rather are a result of less reading ability. Children with dyslexia made significant gains in reading after receiving intensive tutoring, and their visual system activity increased.
The number of big game hunters in Spain has risen significantly over the past three decades, driven by urban tourists seeking trophy hunting experiences. This trend is linked to economic factors, including increased purchasing power and the growth of commercial hunting activities.
A NYU study explores the connection between political ideology and racial categorization, revealing that conservatives are more likely to identify mixed-race individuals as Black. The research suggests that this phenomenon is linked to system-justifying biases and a desire to maintain traditional social boundaries.
A new study suggests that scientists can create a stable structure with manganese and gallium nitride, which could be used in spintronics devices at or above room temperature. By incorporating a uniform layer and heating the sample, researchers were able to form a manganese-nitrogen bond that remains stable even at high temperatures.
Researchers found that small increases in cardiovascular health scores, even by just one point, significantly reduced the risk of stroke over a five-year period. This study highlights the importance of maintaining good cardiovascular health in preventing strokes.
Tropical Storm Andrea featured towering thunderstorms with cloud top temperatures above -63F (-52C) and heaviest precipitation over the eastern Gulf of Mexico and southeastern Florida. TRMM satellite data revealed a large area of moderate to heavy rainfall in the storm's northeast quadrant, spreading over Florida.
Researchers mapped a young gene's journey to becoming essential in fruit flies, challenging the paradigm that only ancient genes are important. The study found that young and rapidly evolving genes can be indispensable too.
Research from the University of Sheffield reveals a decline in Europe's undeclared economy from 22.3% to 18.4% of GDP between 2003 and 2012. The study found an east-west divide, with southern European countries having larger undeclared economies.
A new peer-reviewed data paper compiles information on Belgian ants, highlighting the FORMIDABEL database with 27,642 records. The database provides insights into the indigenous and exotic ant fauna in Belgium, shedding light on their distribution patterns based on vegetation and soil types.
A new mathematical method simplifies cancer-cell genome data, identifying recurrent events and revealing tumor evolution. The CORE technique improves prognosis and treatment decision-making by distinguishing subpopulations of cancer cells.
Researchers found that cancer cells' high sugar consumption disables immune cells' ability to produce inflammatory compounds, making it harder for them to fight tumors. This discovery may lead to new treatments by enhancing T cell function and treating autoimmune disorders.
A recent study published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine found that nearly half of young men with newly-diagnosed erectile dysfunction (ED) experience severe ED. Younger patients had lower body mass index, higher testosterone levels, and fewer medical conditions compared to older patients.
A new study from USC researchers has found that a genetic mutation in testis stem cells increases the production of sperm carrying the disease trait, making older fathers more likely to pass it along to their children. This mutation gives an edge over normal stem cells, resulting in higher frequencies of new cases every generation.
Researchers found that small differences in health status are associated with large reductions in stroke risk. A better score on the Life's Simple 7 health factors is linked to a lower stroke risk, with ideal blood pressure being the most important indicator.
Researchers found that ape and human infant gestures shared common forms and functions, including reaching, pointing, and raising arms. The study's findings suggest that humans inherited a language of gestures from our last common ancestor with chimpanzees and bonobos.
The University of Houston has received a $1 million endowment from ExxonMobil to train secondary science and math teachers through its teachHOUSTON program. The program provides teaching opportunities throughout four years at UH, producing well-suited STEM teachers.
Glycans play a vital role in cellular communication, but disruptions in their behavior can lead to serious problems. Researchers found that glycans in NPC cells do not recycle properly, causing miscommunication and travel difficulties within the cell.
Researchers at Smithsonian Institution and Natural History Museum confirmed the origins of remora fish's sucking disc as a modified dorsal fin through detailed study of larval stages. The findings suggest that small changes in fin development led to the formation of the disc, disproving previous theories.
Researchers used carbon-14 dating to determine if adult humans generate new neurons, finding that up to 1,400 new cells are added daily. This neurogenesis may contribute to human brain function and potentially inform depression treatments.
Two prominent scientists, Dr. Martin D. Burke and Dr. Harry Gray, will deliver Kavli lectures on innovative medicine and energy solutions at the American Chemical Society meeting. Their talks focus on replacing missing proteins to cure diseases and harnessing artificial photosynthesis for sustainable energy production.
A new study suggests that suspending humanity through objectification can prevent war crimes, while dehumanizing others evokes disgust and disempathy. By understanding the brain's workings in these situations, researchers aim to develop a more effective military strategy that minimizes harm.
A study by IDIBELL researchers recommends the use of faster and more potent antithrombotic drugs in high-risk heart attack patients. The study found that only 25% of patients responded to aspirin and 10% responded to clopidogrel, leading to a recommendation for stronger alternative treatments.
Researchers discovered that birds have normally developing penises in early embryos but lose them through a genetic program, suggesting possible benefits for reproductive control. The study highlights the importance of programmed cell death in developmental processes and may provide insights into medical questions.
Rich Wener's research has significantly furthered the ability to build humane, just, and functional correctional facilities. He was recognized by the Environmental Design Research Association (EDRA) with a Career Award for his contributions to environmental design research.
Researchers have developed a rapid and reliable technique to identify mice with specific gene deletions or replacements, using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). This method will provide a valuable tool for researchers studying bone marrow reconstitution and TCR/CD3 retrogenesis.
Researchers analyzed North Pacific killer-whale strandings, finding 88% fatal and 12% surviving, providing clues on species' overall life history, genetics, and health. The standardized necropsy system increased data collection from 2% to 33%, shedding light on the causes of death and human impact on orca populations.
A new study from the University of Michigan and Michigan State University found that Facebook connections can play a role in helping young people, especially those who are traditionally less likely to go to college, feel more confident about their ability to get into college and to succeed there. First-generation students who use socia...
China has made substantial gains in health over the past two decades, including increases in life expectancy and declines in infectious diseases. However, the growth of non-communicable diseases and risk factors such as tobacco use and high blood pressure are becoming major public health concerns.
Researchers found spindle-shaped microfossils in 3 billion-year-old rocks, indicating the presence of planktonic autotrophs. The findings suggest that oceans had life for an extended period, potentially leading to rapid evolution of diverse life forms.
Using proper child safety restraint systems decreases mortality and serious injury rates in motor vehicle crashes. Booster seats minimize abdominal injuries, and rear-facing seats should be used until at least 2 years old or 20 pounds.
Researchers found that aerosol pollution from the Northern Hemisphere cooled the region, shifting tropical rain bands and leading to drought in central Africa. The study used decades of historical observations and climate models to determine this global impact. The discovery highlights the remote climate effects of air pollution.
Researchers found that northern gannets avoid visiting neighboring colonies' fishing grounds, suggesting a mathematical explanation rather than territorial behavior. The birds follow specific patterns and routes to find food opportunities, reinforcing cultural transmission within their colonies.
Researchers at MIT have made significant progress in understanding the neural mechanisms of compulsive behavior by activating a specific brain circuit that controls compulsive behavior. By using optogenetics, they were able to block compulsive behavior in mice and demonstrate potential new approaches for treating diseases such as OCD.
Researchers develop method to classify quantum entanglement states into geometric objects called polytopes, allowing for efficient prediction and characterization of entangled states. This breakthrough enables the development of novel quantum technologies with practical applications.
Two studies identify specific HA mutations in H5N1 and H7N9 viruses that enhance infectivity in the human respiratory tract. These findings can inform monitoring and vaccine development for emerging bird flu strains.
A new study published in The Lancet reveals that Chinese people spend a greater proportion of their lives in good health compared to other G20 countries. However, the country faces significant health challenges, including rising rates of stroke, ischaemic heart disease, road injuries, diabetes, and some cancers.
Heavy rainfall rates were detected in Tropical Storm Andrea by NASA's TRMM satellite, with rates reaching up to 5 inches per hour in the southern part of the storm. The storm intensified into a tropical storm on June 5, with maximum sustained winds near 40 mph.
University of Calgary researchers plan to deploy and test inexpensive methane biofilters to reduce low-volume methane emissions in the petroleum, forest, and agriculture industries. The project aims to convert methane to carbon dioxide, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and their contribution to global warming.
Researchers found reversal cells covering 80% of resorbed bone surfaces that gradually mature into osteoblasts during the reversal phase. Biopsies from postmenopausal patients with osteoporosis showed a high proportion of arrested cells, associated with bone loss.
A recent study by University of Michigan researchers has found that sturgeon have evolved at an incredible rate in terms of body size, with some species reaching sizes comparable to those of Volkswagen vans. This discovery challenges the common perception of sturgeon as 'living fossils' and sheds new light on the evolutionary process.
Astronomers have discovered a crescent-shaped structure, known as a dust trap, around a young solar system in the constellation Ophiuchus. The researchers speculate that this feature enables dust particles to cling together, setting the stage for the formation of larger objects.
A retrospective study found that higher numbers of lumbar epidural steroid injections (LESI) were associated with increased risk of bone fragility and vertebral fractures. Patients at high risk for fractures include older women, those who have had an earlier fracture, smokers, and underweight individuals.
Scientists at Scripps Research Institute have identified an extraordinary family of cow antibodies that could lead to breakthroughs in human medicine. The unique structure and mechanism of these antibodies may allow for the creation of new therapeutic proteins.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory discovered critical differences between human Argonaute proteins, including a single amino acid change in hAgo1 that enables it to act as a slicer. The study highlights the importance of protein regions beyond the active site in determining activity.
Researchers identified unique properties of normal MLL1 pathway in hematopoietic stem cells that may be exploited to treat leukemia with MLL1 translocations. This could lead to improved transplantation outcomes for chemotherapy-resistant cancers.
A gene expression study highlights genes that help buffer grapevines against environmental change and may explain the different quality performances of grapevine when grown in different terroirs. The research could be used to identify and breed grapevine varieties better suited to climate change.
Scientists demonstrate the existence of two distinct regulatory domains controlling arm and hand formation, revealing a complex genetic switch that enables wrist emergence. The study sheds light on the molecular processes governing limb development, highlighting the intricate dialogue between genes and regulatory elements.
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute are partnering to establish a network of sites for clinical trial testing in community oncology settings. This partnership aims to increase trial enrollment and advance innovative blood cancer therapies, ultimately saving lives.
Researchers successfully mobilize brain's native stem cells to replenish neurons lost in Huntington's disease. The study demonstrates the feasibility of a completely new concept to treat the disease by recruiting endogenous neural stem cells to regenerate cells, significantly extending survival of treated mice.
Researchers aim to discover planets with conditions suitable for life by detecting faint dust clouds around nearby stars. The new technology will improve the odds of finding Earth-like planets with liquid water on their surface.
Researchers have found that visually impaired individuals and those with uncorrected refractive error are more likely to experience diminished balance when their eyes are closed. The study suggests that vision plays a crucial role in calibrating the vestibular system, which helps maintain physical balance.
Researchers found that a type of predatory sea slug, Pleurobranchaea californica, has complex cognitive abilities allowing it to learn the warning cues of dangerous prey. The sea slug selectively avoids certain prey, such as Flabellina iodinea, and can remember this avoidance behavior even after several days.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have discovered a way to correct genetic defects in skin cells of patients with epidermolysis bullosa. They used engineered transcription activator-like effector nucleases to target and fix mutation-causing genes, resulting in the production of missing proteins in living skin models.
Researchers from Spain and the US have identified nine molecular hallmarks of aging, including genomic instability, telomere shortening, and epigenetic alterations. By understanding these hallmarks, they hope to develop treatments that can combat cancer and other diseases linked to aging.
Researchers have created a powerful digital system, SALSA, to analyze billions of tweets and social media messages in just seconds. The tool helps emergency responders receive early information about natural disasters and public health advocates protect people's health by identifying valuable patterns amidst vast amounts of noise.
The Massachusetts Life Sciences Center has announced a significant investment of over $100 million in grants for life-sciences-related capital projects in western Massachusetts. This investment will support the growth of the state's life sciences supercluster and enhance the University of Massachusetts Amherst's ability to drive econom...
A new analysis by researchers at George Washington University School of Public Health and Health Services suggests that removing conflict-of-interest restrictions for FDA advisory panels could weaken the agency's review system. The 2012 law loosened these restrictions, allowing more industry-affiliated experts to serve on panels.
A study published in Fluids and Barriers of the CNS found a significantly altered level of six specific proteins in people with restless leg syndrome (RLS), consistent with iron deficiency, dopamine dysregulation, and inflammation. The discovery could lead to new treatments for RLS and its associated cardiovascular disease risk.
Scientists at TUM have synthesized a novel framework structure consisting of boron and silicon, which could serve as an electrode material. The LiBSi2 framework has channels that allow for the storage and release of lithium atoms, making it a promising alternative to pure silicon.
A new study published in The Journal of Pediatrics found that most youth football player concussions occur during games, not practice sessions. Players aged 11-12 years were almost three times more likely to suffer a concussion than those aged 8-10 years.
A UGA study found that despite varied legislations, outcomes were similar across four African countries. Poorly done consultations often led to displacement of indigenous communities and loss of livelihoods.
A new study forecasts higher surface water temperatures in Austrian lakes by 2050 due to climate change, posing risks to water quality and ecosystems. Warmer waters could lead to enhanced nutrient loads and algal blooms.
A new DNA test has been developed to identify kangaroo species from their droppings, providing valuable information for population management and conservation. The test has already identified several species outside of their known range, with implications for biodiversity management and climate change impacts.
A team of researchers plans to model how humans respond to viral pathogens like influenza, Ebola and West Nile, aiming to provide a detailed molecular understanding for drug development. The study will focus on the host response during infection, using high-throughput screening and advanced data processing methods.
A new 100,000-year climate record from Borneo provides insights into the tropical Pacific's sensitivity to abrupt climate change events. The study found that climate feedbacks in tropical regions may amplify and prolong these events, which were previously discovered in the North Atlantic.
China experiences a significant increase in Alzheimer's cases from 1.93m in 1990 to 5.69m in 2010, highlighting the need for improved awareness and resources to tackle this growing public health issue. The study suggests that global estimates of Alzheimer's disease may need revision upwards by at least 5 million cases, or almost 20%.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen's Danish Stem Cell Center have made a groundbreaking discovery in regressing embryonic stem cells to an early stage of development. This breakthrough could provide new insights into conditions such as miscarriages and placenta-related disorders.
Scientists at the University of Copenhagen successfully teleported quantum information between two glass containers filled with billions of caesium gas atoms. The experiments demonstrated stable results every time, paving the way for future quantum communication networks.
A protein complex called Mediator, specifically enzyme CDK8, plays a crucial role in tumor cell survival under hypoxic conditions. Inhibiting CDK8 could provide a potential target for cancer-fighting drugs, particularly those targeting HIF1A transcription factor.
A computational model of E. coli has been developed, enabling researchers to compute the temperature sensitivity of proteins and predict weak points that limit heat tolerance. This study opens up possibilities for creating heat-tolerant microbial strains for industrial applications.
Researchers discovered that herpes simplex virus type-1 (HSV-1) binds to a receptor called MARCO, which enhances its ability to infect cells and cause disease. This interaction may lead to serious health complications in people with compromised immune systems, such as atopic dermatitis.
Researchers at McMaster University have discovered that removing a key protein can significantly improve the lifespan and neurological function of mice with Tay-Sachs disease. The findings suggest that FDA-approved drugs, readily available on the market, may help alleviate symptoms of the devastating condition.
Male superb lyrebirds' choreographed dance movements are linked to specific songs, with females selecting the best performers. The birds' dancing skills are crucial for mating, with years of practice before maturity.
Researchers have discovered a molecular mechanism that helps stabilize chromosome ends, preventing cell death. The 'telosome' protein complex, formed by sequence repeats and transcription factors, protects chromosomal ends through a VELCRO-like structure.
Researchers found a strong association between low vitamin D levels and high HBV replication in patients with chronic HBV. The study suggests that vitamin D may help control HBV levels and proposes further investigation of its therapeutic potential.
Recent data suggest that aspirin reduces heart attacks, but also increases risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and stroke. The study found that including a cancer mortality benefit influences aspirin prescribing thresholds, making middle-aged men eligible for prevention.
Scientists have developed a method to derive mature human neurons from reprogrammed skin cells, enabling direct disease modeling and customized treatments. The new approach uses astrocytes to guide the growth of neurons, leading to more effective cell differentiation and improved neural function.
The 2011 Draconid meteor shower deposited a large amount of meteoritic material on Earth, including fragments that may have formed from the comet Giacobini-Zinner. Researchers analyzed six fireballs and found they had a possible similar composition to carbonaceous chondrites.
A Weill Cornell study reveals that faulty wiring occurs when RNA molecules embedded in a growing axon are not degraded, interfering with new signals meant to guide the axon. This knowledge may lead to new therapies and strategies to correct faulty pathways.
Researchers found that magpies take quicker decisions when humans are observing them, even if they don't perceive humans as a threat. This skill may have evolved to aid in survival near humans for centuries.
A new study by the Consortium on Financial Systems & Poverty finds that Thailand's healthcare reform led to a significant reduction in infant mortality rates among the poor. The '30 Baht Program' increased hospital payments for indigent care, resulting in more poor people seeking medical treatment and improved health outcomes.
Researchers at Rutgers University have discovered the biological process of how corals create their skeletons, which form massive and ecologically vital coral reefs. The study found that specific proteins produced by corals can form limestones, even in more acidic water, suggesting coral reefs may survive ocean acidification.